Swing and a Miss: What's wrong with the Rangers' offense and can it be fixed?

The Texas Rangers, two year removed from their 2023 World Series triumph, find themselves wrestling with unexpected offensive woes in the early stages of the 2025 MLB season. Despite a roster beaming with power and talent, the team's bats have been uncharacteristically silent, prompting swift changes in the coaching staff and raising questions about the path forward.

Why are the Texas Rangers struggling offensively and where do they go from here?

Offensive metrics paint a grim picture

As of May 10, the Rangers hold an 18–21 record, a reflection of their inconsistent offensive output. The team ranks 25th in batting average (.229), 28th in on-base percentage (.285), and 25th in slugging percentage (.359). Their walk rate stands at a mere 6.7%, placing them 29th in the league. These metrics emphasize an increasingly worrisome issue: the Rangers are struggling to generate consistent offense, a stark contrast to their 2023 performance when they led the American League in runs scored.

Key contributors underperforming

Several players who were instrumental in the Rangers' previous successes have yet to find their rhythm this season. Second baseman Marcus Semien and outfielder Adolis García have seen dips in their offensive production, while newly acquired slugger Joc Pederson endured a 41 at-bat hitless streak before breaking it against the Oakland Athletics.

First baseman Jake Burger, brought in to bolster the lineup, has also struggled, batting just .190 with three home runs and 12 RBIs in 30 games. His performance led to a demotion to Triple-A Round Rock, with Blaine Crim taking his place on the roster.

Coaching changes: Ecker out, Boone in

In response to the team's offensive struggles, the Rangers made a significant coaching change, relieving offensive coordinator Donnie Ecker of his duties on May 4. Ecker, who joined the Rangers in 2021 and played a pivotal role in their 2023 championship run, was seen as a progressive mind in hitting strategy.

The following day, the Rangers announced the hiring of former All-Star Bret Boone as the new hitting coach. Boone, a three-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger, brings a wealth of experience from his 14-year MLB career. While this marks his first major league coaching position, Boone's familiarity with Ranger’s manager Bruce Bochy, under whom he played during his stint with the San Diego Padres, is expected to facilitate a smooth transition.

Looking ahead

The Rangers' pitching staff has been the team’s bright spot, boasting a team ERA of 3.52, which ranks towards the top across the league. However, without offensive support, the Rangers risk squandering quality starts and falling further behind in the AL West.

The hope is that Boone's fresh perspective and emphasis on aggressive, yet disciplined hitting can reignite the somewhat lackadaisical Rangers' offense. As the season progresses, time will tell if these changes yield the much-desired turnaround.

While the Rangers' early-season offensive struggles are concerning, the proactive measures taken by the organization demonstrate a commitment to addressing the issues head-on. With a blend of veteran leadership and emerging young talent, there's optimism that Texas can recalibrate and return to the form that made them champions just two years ago.